Freezing seeds for longer storage?

[cheapskate chaz]

What prompted me to ask this, was when I read on here that someone had put his seeds in the freezer.
So, can we? does it actually prolong the storage life? or would the Fridge be sufficient?
Is it only possible with certain seeds, and could there be problems in germination if not suitably defrosted prior to planting?

[Snadger]

Certainly didn't help my dates to germinate..................

[Penellype]

The thinking behind this is that some plant species won't germinate until after winter, so if you freeze them for a short while the seed is then stimulated to germinate once it has been defrosted. Clearly this is not going to work with half hardy plants that are not native to cold climates. Personally I have never tried this, and I've had very few problems with germination (although lettuces can be tricky and maybe I should give them a try in the freezer). I've also heard that you can get strawberry plants to flower at a specific time by freezing the runners before planting them. Again I have not tried this myself.

[Scarlet]

Freezing seeds can ensure that their storage life is extended. I often freeze packs of bean seeds and their germination rates don't diminish as fast if left in a cupboard. I freeze in freezer bags and place in a tupperware box, when I need them I defrost inside the tupperware box before opening the lid.

If you have trouble with bugs/weevils it worth freezing as it will kill off any eggs etc,

[Scarlet]

Here's a link worth a read :
Seed Saving and Storage

[Alison]

Freezing seeds can ensure that their storage life is extended. I often freeze packs of bean seeds and their germination rates don't diminish as fast if left in a cupboard. I freeze in freezer bags and place in a tupperware box, when I need them I defrost inside the tupperware box before opening the lid.

Surely bean seeds tend to last for years when just kept in a dry cool tin in my front room, grew some this year that were a good ten years past their use by date. Think all but one germinated and grew well.

[Scarlet]

Surely bean seeds tend to last for years when just kept in a dry cool tin in my front room, grew some this year that were a good ten years past their use by date. Think all but one germinated and grew well.

Perhaps it depends on your house Alison? I live in a very old house that comes hand in hand with damp etc. I keep my seed in boxes in a cupboard but if I know I won't grow that variety that season
I'll pop some in the freezer for guaranteed success.

[Alison]

Perhaps it depends on your house Alison? I live in a very old house that comes hand in hand with damp etc. I keep my seed in boxes in a cupboard but if I know I won't grow that variety that season
I'll pop some in the freezer for guaranteed success.

That makes sense . Mind you, the state of our freezer I'd never find them again - not exactly the mist organised part of the house